The Pittsburgh Pirates, known for their promising starting pitching depth, may soon find that depth put to the test. Right-hander Jared Jones, a key player with a fastball topping 100 mph, is experiencing elbow discomfort. This issue could potentially land him on the injured list at the start of the season. The team has opted not to have him pitch any more during spring training. While imaging tests and second opinions from external doctors are being sought, history suggests serious injuries often prompt such measures. If Jones’ injury proves severe, it would significantly impact the Pirates' rotation plans. Meanwhile, the Pirates must explore options to fill his spot, possibly leaning on bullpen games or tapping into their Triple-A talent pool.
Among the prospects, Thomas Harrington stands out as a possible replacement. Despite limited Triple-A experience, his maturity and high ranking by Baseball America make him an attractive choice. Yet, bringing Harrington up early means starting his service time clock, which could influence future salary arbitration and free agency eligibility. In contrast, last year, the Pirates confidently added Jones to their opening-day roster despite similar concerns about his Triple-A experience. A similar move with Harrington might prove beneficial if managed carefully.
Assessing Injury Risks in Young Pitchers
Jared Jones' potential absence highlights the challenges faced by young pitchers striving to balance performance and health. His powerful fastball and hard sliders come at a physical cost, especially given his relatively compact build. Last season's injury history, including a strained right lat muscle, raises questions about whether the strain of launching numerous fastballs caught up with him quickly. The team’s cautious approach, avoiding further starts in spring training, reflects a strategic effort to manage risks and protect his long-term viability.
Jones' situation serves as a reminder of the inherent risks in modern pitching strategies that prioritize velocity. At just 23 years old, his impressive rookie stats—6-8 record and 4.14 ERA in 22 starts—showcase his potential but also underscore the fragility of young arms. Before his injury last year, his ERA was commendable at 3.56 through 16 starts, only to rise sharply afterward. This fluctuation suggests the need for careful management, perhaps even rest periods, to ensure sustained effectiveness. As the Pirates weigh their options, they must consider not just immediate needs but also the long-term health implications for their players.
Exploring Replacement Options for Jones
In light of Jones' potential unavailability, the Pirates face decisions regarding how best to utilize their pitching resources. They could adopt bullpen-centric strategies, relying on openers and multi-inning relievers like Caleb Ferguson and Carmen Mlodzinski. However, these players excel more as relievers rather than starters, making this approach less ideal for extended periods. Alternatively, promoting one of their promising Triple-A prospects presents a viable solution. Among them, Thomas Harrington emerges as a strong candidate due to his demonstrated maturity and solid performance metrics.
Harrington's inclusion in major-league camp signifies the team's confidence in his abilities. Though he has only eight starts under his belt in Triple-A, his 5-1 record and 3.33 ERA indicate promise. Bringing him up now would follow a precedent set last year when Jones was added to the opening-day roster despite limited higher-level experience. Such a decision carries considerations beyond immediate performance, affecting future financial and contractual arrangements. Nevertheless, the Pirates' willingness to trust in young talent, combined with prudent management practices, could yield positive outcomes both short-term and long-term. Balancing these factors will be crucial as they navigate the complexities of maintaining a competitive rotation amidst unexpected setbacks.